Not only did Kelly sing and dance this piece, he choreographed the dance, and co-directed the film. His co-director, Stanley Donen, said that this routine was a nightmare to film, taking over three days. They were unable to film after 3.30pm, for instance, as the neighbours watering their lawns meant there was insufficient water for the effects.

The song was written by Nacio Herb Brown (music) and Arthur Freed (lyrics)

It must be admitted that this version was chosen because of the associated film clip, from the Movie 2001: A Space Odyssey, directed by Kubrik. However there are only short versions online at present, so I have given two links here.

First: an extract from 2001

It is worth seeing this on the big screen. It gained some notoriety when first released, because of the numbers of people who were “self-medicating” in cinemas to enhance their experience.

Second: a complete version by the great showman Andre Rieu

Broken link? click here. and select one that is at least seven minutes long.